MEXICO. Silver 50 Centavos Essai (Pattern), 1907. Paris Mint, By Charles Pillet. PCGS PROOF-62 Gold Shield.cf.KM-Pn175; PL-01B. Raised edge lettering. Struck in preparation of the centennial of the beginning of the Mexican war of Independence (1810). A lovely brilliant and flashy proof with light golden tone in the peripherals. Signs of the handling most evident in the open areas, but nothing of any significance. A neat for runner to the beloved Caballito circulation issues.In 1907 the Paris mint was commissioned by the Diaz government to prepare designs for the new commemorative coinage. The contract was given to Pillet who initially design the 1907 50 Centavos pattern as well as 1908 and 1909 Peso patterns. Minting equipment was received in April 1909 consisting of master dies, punches and edge milling devices, but it wasnt until January 1910 that production began. For some unknown reason the 50 Centavos was never placed into full production and remains a pattern only issue.
